A Walk Through Parco Sempione

 

A mass of humanity and a blend of ancient ruins join the modernity of dress, speech and activity in Milan. Two pigeons form symmetry on a rounded lamppost, witnessing the exchange. Lovers intertwine, mirroring the hues of green branches that spread and twist and wrap around the various shapes and sizes of tree trunks. A casual, friendly game of soccer is in full swing in one corner.  A raucous laughter comes from another as a line of university students flaunt their ideologies. Roughly constructed signs painted on their bodies proclaim, “No oil!” their demeanors reflecting they care more about making a scene then a political statement.

A black spotted dog walks his owner, pausing occasionally to peruse the sights and smells around him. A steady beat, with decidedly American tones, is carried through the air. Its origin reveals a girl on a slightly raised platform, bellowing out directions to a few faithful disciples attempting the gyrating body movements of hip-hop.

The music fades as I walk on, but the regular beat continues to keep time for the dark, imposing figures working intently under the shade of a nearby tree. Long black robes adorn their bodies. Their hands grip elongated, horizontal poles in a defensive stance. An afternoon sparring match perhaps?

A turn in the bend and the beat of music is deliciously behind me. A group of “ragazzi” (guys and gals) plot and poke and hoot. One nudges the other as I walk by, “Ciao,” he says, with the suggestive bravado of youth.

An occasional biker or runner catches a bit of the surrounds enroot to their destination, while others, more intentional are taking in the scene before them or appear to be present, but are rehearsing very diverse scenes in their minds. Reading, imagining, biking, lounging, displaying, entertaining, pondering, and longing are all present as I wander through Parco Sempione. 

“Shout with joy to God, all the earth!  Sing to the glory of His name: offer him glory and praise!”  ~Ps. 66:1